An epiphysis is an area at the end of a long bone that is separated from the main part of the bone by the growth plate. In this condition, the problem occurs in the upper area while the bone is still growing.

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis occurs in about 2 out of every 100,000 children. It is more common in:

Growing children ages 11 to 15, especially boys

Children who are obese

Children who are growing rapidly

Children with hormone imbalances caused by other conditions are at particular risk for this disorder.

Surgery to stabilize the bone with pins or screws will prevent the ball of the hip joint from slipping or moving out of place. Some surgeons may suggest using pins on the other hip at the same time, because many children will develop this problem in that hip later.

This disorder is associated with a greater risk of osteoarthritis later in life. Other potential but rare complications include reduced blood flow to the hip joint and wearing away of hip joint tissue.

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